Effective De-escalation Strategies for Detention Officers
This training course, designed for detention officers, provides practical strategies for managing and resolving encounters without resorting to unreasonable or excessive force. Participants will be introduced to concepts that challenge traditional approaches and cultural norms, with the goal of fostering safer, more effective interactions.
Topics include:
- Legal requirements and guidelines for the use of force
- Importance of accurate documentation following a use-of-force incident
- Factors that influence an officer’s decision to use force
- Consequences of applying unreasonable or excessive force
- The role of culture—and law enforcement culture—in decision-making
- Legal and ethical responsibilities to intervene, including intervention techniques
- Effective de-escalation strategies across a range of scenarios
- Core tenets of procedural justice and their role in defusing challenging encounters
- Alternatives to physical force
- Understanding crises, including mental health considerations and intervention guidelines
- Building trust and strengthening police–community relations
Presenter
Chief Paul LeBaron (ret)
Paul LeBaron is a 32-year veteran of the law enforcement profession, serving with the Long Beach Police Department for over 27 years, rising to the rank of Commander. In 2020, Paul was hired by the Hermosa Beach Police Department as Chief of Police, a position he held for over five years, retiring in April 2025. During his tenure as Chief, Paul prioritized employee wellness and organizational culture. While Paul served as chief, the Hermosa Beach Police Department maintained full staffing and 100% employee retention through an employee-led culture of innovation and excellence.
Paul is a graduate of California State University, Long Beach, with a degree in Communication Studies. He earned his graduate degree in Management and Organizational Leadership from American Military University and holds a Graduate Certificate in Criminal Justice from the University of Virginia. He graduated from the Sherman Block Leadership Institute (Class #177), the USC Executive Leadership Class (Class #1), and the FBI National Academy (Class #261).
Paul married his wife in 1992. They have 3 children, two daughters-in-law, 2 granddaughters, and over 80 nieces and nephews. He is the fifth in a family of eight children. Paul speaks fluent Spanish and currently teaches in the Criminal Justice Department at CSU Long Beach and serves as an adjunct staff member for the Simon Wiesenthal Center’s Museum of Tolerance. Paul is an avid soccer player and enjoys scuba diving in warm water.
Details
Click here to view or download the course flyer
STC Certified – 01642980
Embassy training seminars are not open to the general public. Embassy reserves the right to restrict or deny enrollment or access to any individual.
*No refunds; substitutions will be permitted.
